Electro-play, electro-sex, or e-stim play (electro or e-stim for short) is the use of electrical stimulation for erotic play and sexual stimulation. This month I discuss the ins and outs (or should that be pulsations and contractions) of using electro-play in sex. Some readers might think that electricity and erogenous zones do not mix; just like electricity and water. Yet, it is the very fact the much of the body is water and therefore conducts electricity that allows for electro-play to be fun. Electro-sex is a safe and pleasurable way to stimulate your erogenous areas with controlled electrical energy.
Electro-play is not a new sexual “thing”. Once considered the domain of the BDSM world, it can now be considered to be in its own domain – although electro-play most definitely remains in the BDSM world for some aficionados. All you have to do is search for electro-play on any of the big online porn platforms and see the number of amateurs (everyday people – not professional amateurs) who upload their own videos of enjoying electro-play. (I only looked for educative purposes!). It is more common than one might think and also, Check out the Lovense Lush 3 if you are a vulva-owner or the Lovense Hush or Lovense Edge if you are a penis-owner.
Electro-play can be a solo activity, a couple’s play; or group play. It is suitable for penis and vulva owners. It really can be for every adult.
What is Electro-Play Exactly?
Electro-play is the use of electrical pulses to stimulate the body. The sensations from the electrodes are transmitted to your brain via electrical impulses that travel along your nerve pathways. When these impulses reach your brain, your brain interpret them as pleasant muscle-contractions and tingling sensations that can invoke an erotic response. By stimulating the nerves with electrical pulses it is possible to gain deeper and possibly more satisfying sensations as the muscles involuntarily contract, or clench.
How Does it Feel?
Well, how do I answer this question. Pleasant. Erotic. Fun. Very enjoyable! You will experience tingling and contractions which complement the sexual experience (contact), and therefore increase the pleasure you are feeling.
The sensation a person experiences depends on several factors: where the electrodes are placed; the type of electrode; and the of course the individual. Skin conduction with a pad-style electrode feels very different to the internal contractions felt with the use of an electro-play dildo or butt plug.
Of course, the level of electrostimulation a person enjoys varies, and is controllable from the e-stim unit. Some people enjoy the lower levels of e-stim, while higher levels electrostimulation can feel uncomfortable and possibly tortuous. This is why electro-play has at times been associated with BDSM play. Some people can achieve orgasm through e-stim alone with not further stimulation. The sensations you experience are entirely dependent on you.
So You Want to Know How to Electro-Play
First and foremost, use appropriate equipment. I recommend using a purposed designed e-stim unit. At Aphrodite’s Pleasure we stock the Electrastim range as well as the Mystim Electro-Vibrators. Some people use a TENS machine (a medical device used for treating sore muscles). E-stim units allow you to control the level of electrostimulation and also the pattern of electrostimulation to be delivered via the electrodes.
Accessories Along with the e-stim unit you will need some accessories to apply the electrostimulations to the body. The electro-vibratos are self-contained so to speak. If you are using an e-stim unit you can choose your accessories depending on where and how you apply the e-stim. The Electrastim range includes cock bands/rings, butt plugs, dildos, urethral sounds and electro-pads. The size of the pad will influence the intensity of the sensation being delivered. A smaller pad will deliver a more intense sensation than a larger pad. As I noted above there is a difference in sensation between internal and external application of e-stim.
Do your Research and Talk to your Partner/s Do some research yourself. There is much written about electro-play on the web. If you are partnered have a conversation with your partner/s. Remember to listen with the intent of understanding where they are coming from. Electro-play might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Be prepared to share your knowledge and allow time for your partner/s to understand the concept of electro-play.
Connecting with a partner via e-stim can be also be fun. For example, each person where an electrode and when you kiss or touch you close the e-stim circuit and experience the sensation at the place where the electrode, or pad, is attached. Brings a new meaning to the idea of electricity passed between us.
Some Precautions
- Do not use electrostimulation devices when pregnant;
- Avoid electro-sex/electro-play if you suffer from epilepsy;
- Remove all jewellery before you begin to play. Metal conducts electricity.
- Do not use electro-sex products if you feel tired or fatigued, dehydrated, hungry , unwell or not at your best;
- Avoid placing electrodes or using electro-play toys on broken or irritated skin;
- Use a good quality water-based lubricant for internal e-stim products, and use an e-stim/electro-conducive gel with external products to increase conductivity and therefore sensations (and to avoid skin tenderness);
- Always ensure that the power is off on the e-stim control unit before you begin to apply electrodes to the body. This includes while inserting an electro-play dildo or butt plug;
- It is not recommended you use e-stim if you have heart problems or have a pacemaker fitted; and
- DO NOT use e-stim above the waist. Electricity should NEVER pass your heart so DO NOT place electrodes near or on your nipples!
Remember a healthy life includes a healthy sex life. And a healthy sex life is sane, (con)sensual and safe. Liberator may liberate your body for new exciting positions.
Enjoy!
Dr Christopher
Dr Christopher Fox is a Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist at Sex Life Therapy in Melbourne. He has clinics in Collingwood and Frankston.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this document should be read as general in nature and is only to provide an overview of the subject matter covered. Please read product packaging carefully and follow all instructions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEkIuJj3e50